(UPDATED FOR 2014.)
The master course Advanced Graphics addresses advanced topics in 3D computer graphics. The focus of the course is physically-based rendering of 3D scenes. The course has three main focus areas: Mathematical and physical fundamentals, rendering algorithms, and methods for increasing efficiency.
In the first section, fundamentals of linear algebra and calculus are discussed (including a recap of prerequisites from the bachelor program). Then, the physics of light transport is discussed, such as modeling ray optics and the equilibrium conditions for light transport ("Rendering Equation").
The second topic area introduces the basic rendering algorithms (finite element radiosity/radiance, path tracing, photon tracing, and discusses standard optimizations (basis functions, variance reduction).
The third part deals with efficiency. The main focus is on data structures for efficient rendering, as well as hardware considerations (shaders, GPUs/SIMT).
Prerequisites:
(1) Basic knowledge in linear algebra, calculus, probability theory as required for the masters program ("elementary maths for GMT"). (2) Fundamentals in algorithms and data structures. (3) Good programming skills; C++ recommended (you can use other languages at your own risk). Plan for additional time if you plan to familiarize yourself with C++ during the course. (4) Good to have: Basic experience with graphics APIs (OpenGL / DirectX). Plan for additional time if you need to acquire the skills during the course.

Literature:

The main textbook for this course is: Andrew Glassner: Principles of Digital Image Synthesis. CC-online version at: www.realtimerendering.com/Principles_of_Digital_Image_Synthesis_v1.0.1.pdf
Additional literature will be posted on the course web site.

Course form:

The course consists of a lecture, practical project work, and (ungraded) homework assignments. To pass the course, the practical projects need to be completed successfully and a final exam must be passed. The project track will have multiple milestones. The theoretical homework assignments help with preparing for the exam.

Exam form:

The final grade consists of two parts: Grade of the final exam (60%) and the grade of the project work (40%).